Two of a kind: one of my prototypes (left) and a production sample from the shop (right). The sample hasn't been anodized yet.
Good things come to those who wait. Earlier this week, the shop presented the much-anticipated production sample. Three, actually. One of which I kept, while the other two will be referenced by the shop as they set up production.
Here are the specs:
Average Weight: 7.6 oz (ranging between 7.4 oz and 7.8 oz)
Dimensions: approx the same as my proto, nominally 7 1/4″ x 4″ collapsed, 8 3/4″ x 4″ in use
Boiling capacity: 18 oz*
The keen will notice two things: first is that the average weight is comfortably under the 8 oz target. Second is that the *boiling capacity has gone down by two ounces. This is an unfortunate result of a process change required for the shop to make a consistently sealed seam at the bottom, and was a route I okay’d rather than 1) having a leaky Boiler or 2) increasing its dimensions and weight. The change does provide for a marginally larger chimney that should slightly (but only slightly) improve combustion and air flow. I also anticipate that most folks will use the Boiler at 16 oz of capacity, so I don’t think there has been a serious reduction in utility.
The other thing that all of this does is move the expected shipping date to late February. It’s very unfortunate, but pushing the envelope in a big way and with reliable results can take more time than expected. I sent this update to those who pre-ordered earlier today, and the response has remained supportive, a fact I both appreciate and don’t take for granted. Depending on what I can work out, some may go out before then, and I’m pulling whatever strings I can to make that materialize.
With that large milestone now behind me, and a more predictable production schedule, my attention is turning back to sewing and lining up the finishing processes.
For those who haven’t ordered yet, more will be available very shortly after these ship. Sign up for the mailing list to find out when and where.
[ 12 comments… read them below or add one ]
Can’t speak for anyone but myself but I know good things come to the patient (to paraphrase),
The sample looks awesome. Thanks for the update.
Devin,
great to see the progress. I’m looking forward to getting on a good boil soon!
Will you have an accessory to cook on the chimney of the pot like a kelly kettle does? Is the chimney the same diameter as the KK’s?
Thanks for the update.
Randy
Devin,
Very glad to see this project is “picking up steam” and working out for you. I have had faith that you would pull it off, as signified by full my pre-payment. It is good to see the progress and this builds my anticipation. In my experience, getting an M.D., PhD, or J.D. is more about tenacity than smarts. Keep up the great example.
Thanks, guys!
Vino – Thanks, I think it came out really nice, too. And I’m doing my best not to try that patience. :)
Randy – Thanks! You know, I’ve never actually seen a KK or any chimney kettle other than my own in person, so I don’t know what their chimney diameter is. The inner diameter (where I believe the support goes for the KK) of mine is 1.5″. Have you actually used the pot support on one to cook? I’m still skeptical of its utility.
Mike – I really do appreciate that support. And if I can’t get smart, I’ll sure take tenacious. ;)
Have you thought about adding a whistle tip to the top of the kettle for ‘added flair’ value?
http://youtu.be/Nnzw_i4YmKk
But in all seriousness, awesome news, 16 oz is ideal for me personally. Sample looks great!
I can see my slogan now… “The Backcountry Boiler, it goes whoo whoo!” :)
Devin,
I’ve never seen one with the pot support in action. Just was curious and thought it might be an option for those who want to use the boiler to do more than boil water.
I know you’re appealing to the UL folks out there but that’s a fairly limited market. Accessorize to pick up the non UL people out there.
Thanks for the reply. Keep up the good work.
Thanks, Randy. I know what you mean. :)
I just struggle with that kind of thing, since a big thing the Boiler offers is simplicity. Accessories take away from that simplicity, so I remain ambivalent about adding things, but I will look into it. If nothing else, I may offer some simple MYO instructions.
As I’ve said before, I really think the attention to detail you’ve put into this is great. Well worth the wait. Keep it up.
Thanks Charles!
Looks phenomenal! Would love to get my hands on one…let me know when they are available to the rest of us poor people who didn’t find out about them until recently! :)
Thanks, Tim! I’m hoping to have a place to point you for more very soon. They should be ready to ship very shortly after the pre-orders do. I double checked and have you on the mailing list.